Kelly R. Says:
I’m not but a year or so from retirement, though I’d like to keep a hand in my trade. I’m a certified marine technician. If I go to Ecuador, could I still work some?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Kelly,
There are certainly opportunities for a marine technician to work in Ecuador. With some of the world’s most diverse marine life and stunning coastal areas, both locals and expats there love the water, so there is going to be a demand for someone who can maintain watercraft.
A search on professional network LinkedIn shows 30 marine technician jobs being advertised in Ecuador right now.
Marine technicians in Ecuador earn around $1200 a month, on average, or as much as $1920 at the higher end. While this may be lower than in the U.S., remember that the cost of living in Ecuador is also much lower, so these monthly earning stretch further.
As for your right to work in Ecuador, professionals with a 4-year Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university can apply for a Professional Visa (or 9-V Visa) in order to develop your profession, technical activity, or artisan trade. There is actually no requirement to work if you have this visa, but you have the option to. There is also no monthly income requirement, unless you are moving with dependents.
You may also apply for a Technician Visa (or 10-IV Visa) as a “technical expert.” For this, you would need to be under contract with a company that is established in Ecuador.
You can apply for both types of visa in the Ecuadorian embassy in the U.S. You will need to provide a valid passport, photos, medical certificate, and police background check, as well as the appropriate forms and fees.
We strongly advise that you consult with an Ecuadorian immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information before applying for a visa. This is because the details of visas can change at a moment’s notice, and a good attorney knows the latest rules and can handle the detail work smoothly.
You can find more details on the various working visas for Ecuador, as well as a rolodex of useful contacts—including attorneys—in our Escape to Ecuador guide here.